Borlotti beans have a short season, so it’s special when you get to use them fresh. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with dried beans. Cannellini beans are a good alternative, as they maintain their texture better when dried. Use 250 g (9 oz) dried beans.
Green wheat, or freekeh, is wheat that has been harvested before it’s fully dried on the plant, and then roasted. Freekeh refers to the harvesting and drying process, and not the grain, so while it is most commonly wheat, it can be made with any grain. Because the grains are harvested when they’re still green, they retain a lot of their nutritional value and are high in fibre, vitamins and minerals.
I like to use a fairly fresh, soft goat’s cheese for this salad, and just break it over the dish before serving.